“With deep sorrow, I learned about the villainous terrorist act in St Petersburg that caused suffering and grief to many people,” he said in a statement.

“Together with all faithful Catholics and believers of other faiths and religions, I turn to God with a burning prayer for deliverance of Russia and the world from the curse of terrorism.”

He added: “Let the merciful Lord accept the dead in his arms, grant healing to the victims, consolation to the mourners. His blessing and help to all those who work to prevent the repetition of this tragedy.”